In contrast to multihead machines, Schiffli machines are large and the majority are mechanical. They have some unique characteristics:
The fabric is stretched on a vertical frame.
A machine can have 1000+ needles.
Needles move horizontally and are in one or two rows spaced one ‘French inch’ apart.
While it is important for all embroiderers to be familiar with the various threads and fabrics used in the manufacture of their designs, specific machine knowledge is essential to the Schiffli puncher or ‘digitizer’.